Total Lunar Eclipse Viewing

4/14/14

With the optimistic weather forecast, we will make the attempt tonight to view the eclipse at Milo McIver SP. Forecast is showing a span of clear skies between 11 and 2 which would be the prime viewing window for the eclipse. Partly cloudy across a good chunk of the metro area which means it may be a peek-a-boo situation. Based on some forecasts, we are HOPING for a clearing around midnight.

Program starts at 9:30 pm tonight, with the totality starting at 12:07 am, mid-eclipse at 12:46 am and ends at 1:25 am.. The viewing will be on the parking area of the equestrian meadow at Milo McIver SP. There will be signs at the park to direct to the parking area.

Please note, the viewing can still be cancelled due to poor visibility during the event tonight.

Thanks, Jim Todd

OMSI will host the first of two lunar eclipse viewings in 2014 on Monday night, April 14. That evening the full moon will slide through the dark shadow of the Earth and for 73 minutes the only light hitting the Moon will be a reddish glow from all of Earth’s sunrises and sunsets resulting in a total lunar eclipse. Weather permitting; a free viewing of the eclipse will begin at 9:30 pm at Milo McIver State Park in Estacada. The Rose City Astronomers, and Oregon Parks and Recreations will have telescopes set up for attendees to use. OMSI Space Science Director, Jim Todd, will be presenting informal talks about the lunar eclipse and the spring night sky.

Unlike solar eclipses in which the Sun's rays can damage the eyes, lunar eclipses are safe to watch with the naked eye. Lunar eclipses are unique in that no one can predict what color the Moon will turn during totality. Binoculars and telescopes will enhance the view.

The penumbral eclipse begins at 9:55 pm. and the umbral shadow will take a small, dark bite out of the left edge of the Moon starting at 10:59 pm. For 69 minutes of the partial phase darkness engulfs more of the Moon's disk as it slides into the shadow. The partial eclipse ends and totality begins at 12:08 am with the point of the greatest eclipse occurring at 12:46 am. The eclipse’s total phase will last for 73 minutes. The Moon will be 33 degrees above the southern horizon at the instant of the greatest eclipse. Finally, the partial eclipse ends at 2:32 am.

On the scheduled day of the Total Lunar Eclipse Viewing Party, it is suggested that interested visitors call the OMSI Star Parties Hotline, (503) 797-4000 #3 then #5, or check the OMSI Star Parties web site http://www.omsi.edu/starparties for possible weather-related cancellations. The event starts at 9:30 pm and is free with $5 park fee per vehicle. Warm clothing is a must, and a flashlight with red light is recommended. Personal telescopes and binoculars are always welcome.

To reach Milo McIver State Park (24101 S Entrance Road, Estacada, OR), from I-205, take OR-213 S to Redland Road unto S. Redland Road, turn right on S. Springwater Road and turn left to S Entrance Road. The park is located 23 miles southeast of Portland.

The next total lunar eclipse for the Pacific NW will be a total on the morning of October 8, 2014.